The Delhi forest department is set to introduce a mobile initiative called Vriksh Rath, designed to distribute free saplings to the public during the monsoon season and provide on-site assistance for planting. State Environment Minister Manjinder Singh Sirsa announced that a tender has been floated to procure 13 vehicles, one for each district of the capital.
Vriksh Rath: A Mobile Plantation Unit
Each Vriksh Rath will be equipped with saplings, manure, water, and other necessary materials to facilitate individuals and groups wishing to plant trees. The initiative is part of the broader Van Mahotsav campaign, during which Delhi undertakes the majority of its annual tree plantation drive. This year, 22 departments of the Delhi government have collectively set a target of planting 70 lakh saplings, which includes free distribution to the public.
Officials confirmed that trucks will be procured for this purpose, and forest department staff will be deployed to assist citizens in the planting process. The minister emphasized that every sapling distributed would be geo-tagged to ensure accountability and long-term monitoring.
Digital Monitoring and Transparency
A dedicated monitoring system has been established through the Green Drive 2026–27 portal, where all plantation details, institutional participation, and progress updates will be uploaded. This will ensure transparency and accountability in the entire process. Additionally, every tree planted will be geo-fenced, enabling real-time tracking and strengthening long-term monitoring efforts.
Green Awards to Encourage Nurturing
The Delhi government is also introducing Green Awards to recognize and honor individuals and institutions that take exemplary care of the trees they have planted and ensure their long-term survival. Minister Sirsa stated, "We will not only count how many trees are planted, but also how well they are nurtured. Through the Green School Awards, we want to celebrate institutions that take genuine ownership of Delhi's environmental future. Plantation must become a culture, not just an event."
Planting Drive to Begin in July
Officials said the plantation effort is scheduled to commence in the first half of July, coinciding with the onset of the monsoon season. This timing is expected to improve the survival and growth rates of the saplings, as the rains provide natural irrigation and favorable conditions for root establishment.
